Common sense tells everyone to void the smoke from brush fires, but asthmatics and people with respiratory problems need to take it a step further.

“Most asthmatics what will bother them is things you don't see. For example we just had the wildfires, and everyone talked about the smoke in the air which we all coughed but it’s the particles in the air that you don't see that lower into the airways,” says Summe.

Health experts offer some basic guidelines:

Stay indoors as much as possible.

When it comes to filtering the air, choose a HEPA mask or HEPA air filter that can sift out the tiny particles regular dust masks can’t.

Remember to turn your car’s air conditioning setting to re-circulate.

Use caution when it comes to cleaning up any soot or ash around your house or car. Always wet the area down first.

Finally, take extra precautions with children.

“The younger children tend to be more susceptible because their airways are smaller, their immune systems are not as developed so they tend to catch more of the illnesses and things that can trigger asthma,” says Summe.

As always, seek medical help quickly if you have trouble breathing to extinguish any serious problems.